From Reston Station to Plaza America: Inside the Massive Redevelopment Plan

Reston Station Expansion: What You Need to Know About the Future of Growth in Reston

Reston, Virginia, has long been known for its visionary urban planning, abundance of walking trails, and a harmonious balance between modern development and green spaces. Over the past several years, this community has seen a boom in new developments ranging from housing to commercial projects—particularly around Reston Station near the Wiehle-Reston East Metro stop. Now, a new plan led by Comstock Holding Companies Inc. promises to push that growth even further west, nearly reaching Reston Town Center. In this post, we’ll explore the details of the Reston Station Expansion, what it could mean for the local community, and why you, as a current or prospective resident, might want to keep this project on your radar.

Whether you’re hunting for Reston real estate, researching the best realtors in Reston, VA, or simply interested in how new developments in Reston might enhance daily life, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Table of Contents

1. A Quick Introduction to Reston and Its Visionary Roots
2. Reston Station: The Existing Development
3. The Proposed Expansion: From Reston Station to Plaza America
4. Breaking Down the Four Planned “Districts”
5. Higher Densities and Bigger Ambitions
6. Transportation Upgrades: The Shopping Street and Proposed Trolley
7. Potential Impact on Real Estate Values and Housing Options
8. Community Reactions and Next Steps
9. Opportunities for Local Businesses and Future Residents
10. Frequently Asked Questions About the Reston Station Expansion
11. Final Thoughts on the Growth in Reston

1. A Quick Introduction to Reston and Its Visionary Roots

Reston is a unique place in Northern Virginia. Conceived in the mid-1960s by Robert E. Simon, the community was built on the principle of “live, work, play”—and it has stayed true to that ethos ever since. With carefully designed neighborhoods, shopping centers, walking trails, and a host of natural lakes, Reston provides a suburban feel that’s still close to the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C.

The recent push toward transit-oriented development around the Silver Line Metro has further cemented Reston’s status as a hot spot for both residential and commercial growth. Over the last decade, we’ve seen major projects sprout up around Wiehle-Reston East, such as the vibrant Reston Station complex. Now, with Comstock’s new proposal, the community stands at the brink of yet another significant leap forward.

If you’re researching the best Reston agent or the best realtors in Reston, VA, it’s helpful to know not just what properties are available today, but also what’s coming down the pipeline. Staying informed about these large-scale projects could give you an edge, whether you’re buying a new condo, investing in commercial property, or simply wanting to learn more about the neighborhood’s future.

2. Reston Station: The Existing Development

Before we look at the proposed expansion, let’s lay out what Reston Station currently encompasses. Developed primarily by Comstock, Reston Station is located near the Wiehle-Reston East Metro station, making it one of Northern Virginia’s prime examples of transit-oriented development.

• Residential: Several luxury apartment complexes (e.g., Aperture), condos, and other multifamily residences.
• Commercial & Retail: Office towers housing companies like Google, local eateries, and retail shops for daily needs.
• Dining & Entertainment: Restaurants, coffee shops, and communal spaces that encourage foot traffic and a neighborhood feel.
• Connectivity: The Wiehle-Reston East station is a major hub for commuters heading into Washington, D.C., and across Northern Virginia.

This area already captures a lot of what modern Reston has to offer: walkability, proximity to metro transit, and a blend of living and working spaces that reflect the original “live, work, play” philosophy.

3. The Proposed Expansion: From Reston Station to Plaza America

The headline news is that Comstock wants to take the Reston Station footprint and stretch it all the way west to Plaza America, which is close to Reston Town Center. The total acreage covered could be around 130 acres, incorporating existing office parks and surface parking lots that would be redeveloped into a mix of residential, commercial, and public amenities.

This is all happening through a Comprehensive Plan Amendment process facilitated by Fairfax County. Currently, Comstock and other landowners (like TIAA and Carahsoft) are in the nomination stage, meaning they’re presenting their vision to the county for potential adoption into the official Fairfax County Comprehensive Plan. If the county green-lights it, there would still be a multi-year approval and development timeline, but the framework would be in place for a vastly expanded Reston Station corridor.

For you, as a local resident or interested buyer, it’s crucial to keep tabs on these kinds of proposals. They can greatly influence property values, neighborhood dynamics, and the overall lifestyle of Reston. New developments in Reston often bring new business opportunities, housing options, and possibly improved public amenities—all factors that might sway your real estate decisions.

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4. Breaking Down the Four Planned “Districts”

Comstock’s proposal divides the expanded corridor into four main “districts,” each with its own focus:

1. Neighborhood District: This is the core area of Reston Station as it currently stands, often referred to as the center of the action with the Wiehle-Reston East Metro, office towers, and apartments.

2. Residential and Park District: Located west of Metro Center Drive, this part of the plan envisions nearly 5 million square feet of residential and commercial space, plus a sizable park that might include a lake or pond. Think of it as a new green haven for locals to gather, jog, or enjoy outdoor events.

3. Shopping District: This will presumably overlay the Plaza America area, turning it into a mixed-use environment with a combination of retail and residential. So if you’re used to going to Plaza America for groceries, get ready for potential new structures that blend living spaces with shopping.

4. Office District: The existing Plaza America office campus could remain largely intact, but integrated into a broader, more vibrant environment. If you’ve ever dreamed of walking from your high-rise condo directly to work or crossing a bustling street full of cafes, this could be your future.

When you see such a blend of residential, retail, office, and park space, it aligns well with Reston’s core principle of melding different uses into one interconnected community. That’s great news if you value walkability and want a short commute or easy access to entertainment.

5. Higher Densities and Bigger Ambitions

One of the most talked-about aspects of this proposal is the increased density. Currently, the Fairfax County Comprehensive Plan calls for Floor Area Ratios (FAR) between 1.5 and 3.0 in much of Reston’s Transit Station Areas. Comstock’s vision, however, seeks to up that to between 2.5 and 5.0.

Here’s why that matters:

• More Homes and Offices: Higher FAR means taller or more numerous buildings, leading to additional condos, apartments, office suites, or mixed-use spaces.
• Vibrant Streetscapes: More density can often support more shops, restaurants, and local services, giving residents less reason to hop in a car.
• Concerns About Congestion: With any density increase comes questions about parking, traffic, and overall infrastructure support.

Supervisor Walter Alcorn (D-Hunter Mill) has expressed some skepticism about allowing even more density, given the hefty amount of unbuilt but approved development that Reston already has in its pipeline. It’s a debate that will likely continue for months or years as the community and county officials weigh the growth in Reston against preserving its character.

6. Transportation Upgrades: The Shopping Street and Proposed Trolley

To tie these districts together, Comstock’s plan calls for extending Reston Station Boulevard westward as a pedestrian-friendly, retail-focused street. Visualize a more walkable corridor lined with shops, restaurants, and plenty of local haunts—an urban village ambiance that could rival the existing Reston Town Center vibe.

Additionally, there’s talk of introducing a trolley or circulator system along this extended boulevard. While details are still sparse, imagine a small streetcar or shuttle connecting people from the Wiehle-Reston East Metro station through the new developments, past the future park space, and all the way to Plaza America. This would be a handy alternative to driving, potentially reducing traffic congestion and cutting down on the need for large parking structures.

Why does this matter for local residents? It could mean you won’t have to rely on a personal vehicle to get from your condo near the Metro to your favorite shops or offices further west. For prospective homebuyers, a well-connected trolley or circulator is often a strong selling point that can boost property values in transit-oriented communities. Northern Virginia is home to many commuting professionals who value any opportunity to skip the stress of highway driving.

7. Potential Impact on Real Estate Values and Housing Options

Whenever a large-scale development like this is proposed, local homeowners and buyers naturally wonder: How will this affect property values?

1. Increased Demand: Large employers or corporate tenants could be drawn to the area, bolstering the local economy. More jobs can mean more people looking for housing—both rentals and purchases.
2. More Housing Inventory: With thousands of additional residential units potentially coming online, buyers and renters might have more choices, from luxury condos to mid-range apartments. An increased supply can moderate price spikes, but in a highly desirable area like Reston, demand still tends to remain strong.
3. Commercial Property Opportunities: If you’re a business owner, these expansions could open doors for new retail or office space investments. Local entrepreneurs might set up shop in the newly created shopping districts.
4. Long-Term Outlook: Real estate appreciates over time, especially in areas with a robust employment base, good schools, and strong public infrastructure. Even though development proposals can take years to materialize, the forward momentum often fuels a sense of optimism and stable investment in the community.

As a best Reston agent (or someone looking for the best realtors in Herndon, VA for that matter), staying informed about the timeline and scope of these projects will be essential for guiding clients. For those who already own property near Wiehle-Reston East or along the route to Plaza America, you might see your neighborhood evolving significantly in the coming years.

8. Community Reactions and Next Steps

Not all local landowners have signed onto the idea yet. Some, like pension manager TIAA and government IT contractor Carahsoft, haven’t formally given their blessing. Meanwhile, Linden Development, which owns Triangle Park, and Fairfax County (for county-owned parcels) have indicated support in principle. This patchwork of stakeholders is typical in large suburban redevelopment plans.

Fairfax County supervisors accepted Comstock’s nomination in early March 2025, but that doesn’t mean the expansion is a done deal. They’ll decide whether to convert the nomination into a formal Comprehensive Plan Amendment. If it moves forward, additional rounds of community input, environmental studies, and planning commission hearings will follow. That means anyone with a stake in growth in Reston—including local homeowners’ associations and civic groups—will have opportunities to voice support or concerns.

Public forums will likely focus on:

• Traffic and Infrastructure: How will the roads and Metro manage an influx of new residents and workers?
• Public Amenities: Will there be enough green space, parks, and community centers?
• Environmental Impact: How will denser development impact air quality, stormwater management, or local wildlife?

Engaged citizens often play a vital role in shaping how these proposals evolve. If you want your voice heard, keep an eye on the Fairfax County Planning Commission’s upcoming agendas, civic association meetings, and any public workshops.

9. Opportunities for Local Businesses and Future Residents

Local Businesses

With more residents and office workers, local entrepreneurs could find fertile ground to expand or start new ventures. A new trolley system might connect foot traffic across multiple districts, providing higher visibility to shops, cafes, and professional services.

Future Residents

If you’re moving to Northern Virginia for work or looking to purchase your first home, the proposed Reston Station Expansion might broaden your options. The blend of housing—potentially including condos, apartments, and perhaps even townhouses—could cater to diverse budgets and lifestyles. Being able to walk or take a trolley to your favorite restaurants, grocery stores, or even your office is a luxury that many suburban communities simply don’t offer.

Community-Building Events

A bigger Reston Station region could mean more space for community events, farmers markets, art fairs, and cultural festivals. Reston already enjoys a variety of activities at places like Lake Anne Plaza and Reston Town Center; expanding that footprint might create more venues and programs for locals to enjoy.

10. Frequently Asked Questions About the Reston Station Expansion

Q: Is this definitely happening?
A: Not yet. Comstock and other landowners have submitted a nomination to Fairfax County for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment. County supervisors will have to approve it before anything moves forward.

Q: How long until I see actual construction?
A: If approved, large developments typically take years to finalize. You may see incremental construction phases over the next 5–10 years or longer.

Q: Will traffic become worse?
A: Traffic is a key concern, and the county will require traffic impact analyses before major approvals. The proposed trolley or circulator could mitigate some car usage, but it’s still early to predict the overall effect on congestion.

Q: Where can I learn more or voice my opinion?
A: The Fairfax County Planning Department website is a good start. You can also attend local meetings or contact Supervisor Walter Alcorn’s office for updates.

Q: What about schools and parks?
A: Projects of this scale usually include proffers or contributions to local infrastructure, such as schools, parks, and possibly recreational centers. The details will emerge during formal county reviews and negotiations.

11. Final Thoughts on the Growth in Reston

The Reston Station Expansion is an ambitious proposal that fits into the broader narrative of growth in Reston: a community that has always aimed to fuse urban conveniences with suburban comfort. Stretching the development corridor from Wiehle-Reston East all the way to Plaza America could reshape local transit patterns, create new economic opportunities, and introduce a fresh wave of housing options.

Of course, significant questions remain about density, traffic, environmental impacts, and how all these new projects will mesh with Reston’s existing charm. That’s why engagement from the local community is crucial. Whether you’re a homeowner curious about how your property might be impacted, a prospective buyer hoping to settle in a future condo, or a business owner eyeing new storefronts, now is the time to stay informed and get involved in public discussions.

Reston’s original ethos was about imagining a place where people of all ages and backgrounds could thrive—where you can enjoy a wooded trail in the morning, walk to work, and grab dinner with friends all in one day. If the Reston Station Expansion becomes a reality, it could be yet another step toward fulfilling that vision on an even grander scale.

Useful Links:

• Reston Station Official Website
• Comstock Holding Companies

Thank you for reading this deep dive on the Reston Station Expansion! If you have any questions or thoughts, please feel free to reach out. Whether you’re searching for the best realtors in Reston, VA to assist in a future home search or simply want to stay in the loop about new developments in Reston, staying connected with local news and proposals is always a smart move. Here’s to an even brighter future for Reston, Virginia!